www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003 Q1 Q_COVERstory After ‘The Kiss’ Britney Teams Up with , Offers Straight Talk About Gay Fans By Larry Flick Perhaps most significant is the Special to The Express appearance of pop icon Madonna, who lends “Let’s face it, As she vocally saunters atop the sleek, her voice to the single “Me Against The classic- groove of “.” Collaborating with one of her all- gay guys are Music”, is doing more than time greatest musical influences was a more deeply living out her dream of performing with come true for Britney. Madonna, she is firmly establishing herself “The experience was beyond words or in touch as one of the gay community’s enduring description,” she says. The two forged what icons. has become a powerful bond while rehearsing with their With a little help from producers Red Zone, for their now-notorious performance on the emotions. Spears packs it all in—a slippery bass line, MTV Video Music Awards this fall. “As we sex-charged chants and an edgy, impassioned were working together, there were moments They’re performance. Although she creates music that when I simply could not believe that I was more open, the masses consistently embrace, Me Against standing there on stage next to her. It was The Music seems custom-made for one of the never even in the realm of fantasy for me.” and they’re more impassioned sectors of her massive As far as that kiss is concerned, Spears audience. Why? Perhaps it’s the appearance doesn’t see what all the fuss is: “It was a not fearful of Madonna. Maybe it’s the rhythmic depth split-second in time. People acted like they’ve of revealing of the song. It could be both, but the artist never seen two women kiss before. It’s crazy believes that it’s simply a matter of sharing an to me that two women kissing can cause such their hearts.” emotional, psychic connection with her gay an uproar. We live in a time where we —Britney Spears listeners. shouldn’t be so shocked by such things.” “Let’s face it, gay guys are more deeply Beyond the kiss, the musical union of in touch with their emotions,” she says. Britney and Madonna shows each of them “They’re more open, and they’re not fearful at their most kinetic and soulful. The song’s of revealing their hearts. They can more easily accompanying video clip, directed by Paul connect with intensity and emotion— Hunter, shows Madonna enticing Britney whether it is about love or enjoying life or through a maze-like underground club, only anything that comes from the gut. I think to disappear into thin air when Britney gets they can feel that my music comes from that close enough to touch her. The clip is rife place. It comes from my gut.” with symbolic gestures of Madonna passing They also connect with the journey Spears the baton of pop power to Britney—an has traveled. Her evolution from a teen image that the young artist finds exciting, renegade into a provocative young woman is humbling and perhaps a bit premature. undeniable throughout In The Zone, her fourth “There is only one Madonna—and there collection. She also displays the will always only be one,” she says. “My goal kind of larger-than-life persona that gay is to have a career that is equally as special, listeners require from their divas. but one that is completely unique to who I am. “The funny thing, though,” she says, I’m honored by all that Madonna brought to “is that I never think in terms of being a diva. this song. I really love the flow we share— I just think about doing good work, having a both on the track and as friends. I think you good time and making music that people can can feel the chemistry and positive energy we respond to. If that leads people into seeing shared. It’s completely natural and relaxed.” me as a diva, well, I guess that’s cool—as What Spears’ fans will feel is undeniable long as it’s a diva in a positive sense and not glee at two of their favorite artists come in a negative or bitchy way.” together in such an powerful fashion. Like like ‘Girlfriend, those pants are making your saying anything. You don’t even have to First and foremost, though, Spears Madonna, Spears forged an alliance with the butt look BIG.’ You’ve gotta love that kind of touch me, just breathe on me.” wants to be viewed as an artist of growth. In gay community that she continues to count honesty.” Among the more sensual songs on the The Zone shows her flexing notably strong on. Not since Madonna has a pop icon But as she basks in the mutual is “Touch of My Hand,” on which and mature songwriting muscles. She co- generated such batty buzz. admiration she shares with gay fans, Spears Britney seductively floats her voice atop an wrote seven of the project’s 12 sterling new “You can’t ask for the kind of support is also optimistic that they will relate to the arrangement of pillowy strings and languid, compositions, collaborating with such heavy I’ve gotten from my gay audience,” Spears songs that fill In The Zone, on which she Middle-Eastern-kissed guitar lines. “It’s hitters as Red Zone (“Me Against The says. “It’s extraordinary.” It’s also enhanced shows her sultry side—particularly on the tastefully done,” she says of the track. “And Music,” “The Hook Up”), her personal life. “Well, gay clubs are the steamy, turntable-ready “Breathe On Me,” a I think it’s real. It’s nice and it’s real. It’s (“Shadow”), (“Early Mornin’”), and best places to hit if you want to be exposed Mark Taylor production that she whatever your take is. Some people may think (“Toxic,” “Showdown”). Also to cool new music. My gay friends are like characterizes as being “very vibe-y, trance- it’s a little much, but that’s where I’m at with contributing hit worthy material to the album my best girlfriends. We go shopping and y. It’s about being with a guy and not even my life. ... It’s not freaky freaky, it’s just a are R. Kelly (“Outrageous”) among several hang and just have a blast. My best gay male having to really be with each other, but just little freaky.” others. friend will tell me straight up about anything, the intensity and the anxiety between not And isn’t that exactly how we like our icons?

Q2 www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003 Q_EXPRESSinterview A Diva Comes to Dinner Original Supreme Mary Wilson to Perform at GLFSF Event By Andy Zeffer titled Theft of a Dream, which includes two new Features Editor chapters. In addition, Wilson keeps busy with Attendees at the Seventh Annual Gay scores of concerts and appearances. She has and Lesbian Foundation of South Florida acted in many off-Broadway plays and appeared (GLFSF) Recognition Dinner on Nov. 22 will in films such as Tiger Town and the recent be treated to a legendary diva when they wine critically acclaimed Motown documentary Only and dine among the stars. Original Supreme the Strong Survive. Mary Wilson is officially on board as the It was on the famed Motown 25 special in evening’s entertainment for the star-studded 1983 where Wilson’s rift with really affair, which will see showbiz luminaries came to fruition. Ross famously pushed Mary Terence McNally and Sir Ian McKellen back during the Supremes performance, shocking honored, among others. both the audience and fellow performers. Since Wilson will perform a set of classic hits then, relations between the two former group by the Supremes in one of her sweeping gowns members have been tense, to say the least. Their reminiscent of the famed girl group. rocky relationship was resurrected in headlines “I won’t have time for my full show, so it a few years ago when a planned Supremes is a scaled down version,” Wilson says. “But reunion was in talks. When negotiations fell it will be very special. I’ll be bringing two back- through after Wilson and other former up singers with me for the set. People can Supreme Cindy Birdsong (who replaced the expect to hear their favorite Supremes third original member Flo Ballard) numbers.” reportedly got offered the short end Besides being known as one of the two of the stick, Ross decided to go surviving original members of the greatest girl ahead with the tour using two group in history, Mary Wilson is known for replacement Supremes she her captivating autobiography Dreamgirl: My never worked with and who Life as a Supreme. The book went on to were in the group toward become a smash bestseller, moving hundreds its last days. Ross’s slap of thousands of copies. Written in 1986, it in the face shocked caused a media stir with its candid portrayal many, and her tour of the struggles and successes of life within failed miserably, getting the Supremes. Especially scintillating was scrapped in its first Wilson’s take on Diana Ross, her childhood days and losing friend and the other remaining original group millions of dollars. member. Wilson went on to write a sequel titled Wilson went on Supreme Faith: Someday We’ll Be Together See in 1990, which was also a hit. A few years ago, MARY WILSON the two books were released as one full volume on page Q8

www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003 Q3 Q_CULTURALPERSONALITY COCKTAILprofile By Mary Damiano Vanity Fair Goes Gay; Rockettes Raise the Roof at Broward Center ‘Radio City Music Spectacular’ Makes South Florida Debut By Mary Damiano by Paulette Ivory, who won “Best Actress in a Rockin’ Rockettes Arts & Entertainment Editor Road Show” for her performance in Aida; The When I was growing up in Jersey Covering Gay TV Jean Ann Ryan Singers & Dancers; and the Peter City, my father took me to Radio City Graves Orchestra. Two Rockettes also appeared Music Hall every Christmas and Easter What’s the gayest show on TV? You as presenters. might be surprised by Vanity Fair’s answer. to see the Rockettes. It was as much a Ex-teen heartthrob and new Fort holiday tradition as getting a photo The magazine, which boasts a class and cool Lauderdale resident David Cassidy couldn’t factor few magazines can touch, closes out taken with Santa or falling asleep after sing as scheduled because of illness, but he eating too much turkey on 2003 with a story and photo spread featuring was on hand to present awards with Kate some major players on gay TV shows. The Thanksgiving. Mulgrew, currently appearing as Katharine I’ve lived in South Florida now for stunning tone-on-tone cover features the Hepburn in Tea at Five. principal stars of Will & Grace as well as more years than I care to say, and my Rupert Holmes, the singer, writer and only link to the Rockettes has been the Queer Eye for the Straight Guy fashionista composer who has had several Broadway Carson Kressley and Gale Harold, who plays Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. But hits, sang his pop sensation “Escape,” better that all changed Thursday, Nov. 13, when beautiful bad boy Brian Kinney on Queer as known as “The Pina Colada Song.” Holmes Folk, all decked out in white and looking the Rockettes and their famous show, said that it was the first time in 12 years he The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, sexy and ethereal. The photo is titled “Gay performed the whole song on stage and that TV’s Heat Wave” and is part of Vanity Fair’s premiered at Broward Center for the it would probably be his last. Holmes also Performing Arts. 2003 Hall of Fame. Inside, more photo spreads presented several awards and proved to be mix up the casts of Queer Eye for the Straight This is the first time the Rockettes a charming and funny guy. have ever appeared in Fort Lauderdale, Guy, Queer as Folk, Showtime’s soon-to- But the highlight of the evening was debut lesbian drama The L Word and Boy one of nine cities they’ll tour this season. watching the best in South Florida theatre get The Au-Rene Theatre was packed to the Meets Boy. The stars are in various stages the recognition they deserve. The musical of undress, and glare and smolder from the gills for this high-kicking debut, and the Santa’s Workshop and a moving living Floyd Collins, a show that was loved by critics audience discovered that the show lives up Nativity full of reverence and pageantry with page. The accompanying story gives a nod but ignored by audiences, won seven awards, to the sudden proliferation and popularity of to its spectacular reputation. animals so real you could close your eyes including “Best Musical.” “Best Play” honors Two colorful Christmas trees flank the and still know there were sheep in the house. gay-themed TV shows, as well as a short went to Constant Star from the Florida Stage and entertaining pop culture lesson on the stage, and a gigantic wreath hangs overhead, There’s also Mrs. Claus, a trio of elves, and a Theatre. Laura Turnbull made Carbonell just to get you in the holiday mood. The group of fresh-faced Young-America-type TV shows with the highest gay factor. Vanity history as the first performer to nab the award Fair’s December issue is on sale now. Rockettes first appear dressed as reindeer, singers and dancers who look like they were in both the play and musical categories. with glittering costumes and twinkling antlers, imported from a Disney World floor show. Carbonell Kudos Turnbull won “Best Actress in a Play” for her ready to pull Santa’s sleigh. Santa is a big Add to that dancing snowmen and stuffed The Amaturo Theatre at Broward Center performance in Crimes of the Heart, as well as part of this show, and he’s onstage at least animals, singing and dancing Christmas trees for the Performing Arts was packed with “Best Actress in a Musical” for her bravura as much as the Rockettes. and an collection of life-size toys, and you’ve theatre lovers and show biz professionals last performance in Blood Brothers. Both productions For two hours, the show takes the got a terrific show that is not to be missed. Monday, Nov. 10, for the 28th annual Carbonell were from the Shores Performing Arts Theatre in audience through various holiday traditions: The Radio City Christmas Spectacular runs awards, which honor South Florida Theatre. Miami Shores. For a complete list of winners, The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers, the through Dec. 7. For more information, call The glittering event boasted entertainment visit www.CarbonellAwards.org. Nutcracker Suite, Christmas in , 954.462.0222.

Q4 www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003 Q_EXPRESSinterview Embracing Bisexuality New CD Puts the B Back in the GLBT Community By Mary Damiano Freedman ultimately decided to stand- Arts & Entertainment Editor by his platform of inclusion, and simply made In the alphabet soup land of the gay sure his artists were bi-friendly. “I do a lot of community, where the G, L and T seem to lecturing,” he says. “I always talk about being grab all the attention, the B often gets inclusive, so how could I produce a CD and overlooked. say you can’t be on this CD unless you’re Skott Freedman is out to change all that. bisexual? That would be hypocritical.” The bisexual singer, and activist Another thing Freedman wanted to has produced Bi the People, a compilation avoid was the use of too many labels, citing CD of bi and bi-friendly artists. an incident with Melissa Ferrick. When an Bi the People features contributions interviewer referred to Bi the People and from Ashley MacIsaac, Melissa Ferrick, Erin asked Ferrick if that meant she was bisexual Hamilton, Bitch and Animal, Jill Sobule and now, Ferrick responded that she no longer Laura Love, among others. Freedman also uses labels to describe her sexuality. contributed one song. Regarding labels, Freedman has embraced Skott Freedman and his Piano Freedman was on tour about a year and the word queer, and uses it to describe all a half ago when he came up with the idea for sexual minorities. organization’s conferences and believes in understand it. Now, Freedman often the compilation. “I was driving, and I heard Freedman scored several coups for Bi their work to help educate people in and out combines his music with his lecturing. He is about all these great gay and lesbian the People, including the Jill Sobule song, “I of the bisexual community. a frequent guest of colleges where he compilations being released—Being Out Saw a Cop,” which has Sobule’s fans While Freedman has always been presents a program where he sings his songs Rocks had just been released,” Freedman salivating because the song is previously musical, his activism surfaced about six years and plays piano, and then educates about says. “I thought it was great that we were unreleased and exclusive to Bi the People. ago when he was 18, right after he came out bisexual issues and the need to unite rather finally at a time where people were able to While Freedman says he had several stars in as gay. Two years later, he came out again, than splinter off into small specialized groups. release these CDs, but it’s always gay and mind for slots on the CD, he held a casting this time as bisexual. “I realized that I was “If we each have our own agendas, lesbian, gay and lesbian. Gay and lesbian is call for artists. But not everyone was still closeting feelings, this time toward nothing is going to get accomplished,” he great, but there is more to the community.” responsive to the project. “There were some women,” Freedman says. says. “I believe we can have individual The South Carolina-based performer high-profile bisexual artists whom I was His second coming out prompted his support groups and women’s music nights— decided to round up some artists he knew disappointed by their lack of willingness to activism about bisexual issues. “I was angry that’s fine. I think it’s about coming together and put together a CD that spotlights be on this,” Freedman says. “They didn’t that a lot of people had such negative reactions besides having your own community and bisexual artists. He put out the word that he really give a reason, but they were people to it, people I would expect to understand, like saying we need these rights and this is what was looking for artists, and decided to make who I know identify as bisexual. I have to gay and lesbian people who have gone we are going to do. We shouldn’t have to the CD all-inclusive. “I wanted the majority respect that, but I was disappointed.” through rejection,” Freedman says. “Anger exclude anyone in order to do that.” of the artists to be openly bisexual and proud, In the spirit of a true indie artist and can be a powerful tool if used correctly.” but on the other hand, I had a conflict: Did I activist, the proceeds of Bi the People will That anger inspired Freedman to begin For more information about Skott want to exclude it and say you had to be benefit the Bisexual Foundation, based in San speaking to groups who he says, didn’t hate Freedman and Bi the People, visit bisexual to be on here?” Diego. Freedman has attended the bisexuality but feared it because they didn’t www.SkottFreedman.com.

www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003 Q5 Heard It Through the Gayvine Queers, Quotes and Quips of Interest

A Royal Gay Scandal Ravenous British tabloid reporters who feed off the royal family are having a field day with yet another supposed royal scandal. USA Today reports that for the past week, newspapers have been parading claims by former palace servant George Smith, 43, who worked for Prince Charles for 11 years until 1997. Smith says he witnessed a sexual incident involving the prince and a former male royal aide. Giving events a covert twist, he supposedly recorded what he saw on an audiotape and passed it on to Princess Diana. Now, the tape is in the hands of Paul Burrell, Diana’s former butler. Yet another royal sell out, Burrell has been publicizing his tell-all book, A Royal Duty. Convenient for publicity and book sales, he has brought up the tape and said that revealing its contents would rock the monarchy. Fleet Street tabloids have pounced on the story, and the allegations are appearing on various Web sites. The queen is surely wishing she could implement the old “Off with their heads!” order for the press that has plagued her family for so many years. If Queen Elizabeth II had the same power that Queen Elizabeth I had, there would be heads rolling down the streets of .

Straights Get Revenge According to E! Online, straights will get payback after being portrayed as hapless style victims over and over again on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. Producers of the show are planning a one-shot spinoff episode titled Straight Eye for the Queer Guy in which five straight men will tutor one gay guy on old- fashioned man culture. Too bad it won’t be one of the smart-alec Fab Five getting instructed on Straight Guy 101. Nothing could be more amusing than witnessing swishy blond Carson Kressley getting instructed on how to use a chainsaw, or smug pretty boy Kyan Douglas being tutored on NFL basics. Comedy Central is jumping on the queer bandwagon as well, with a three-hour spoof called Straight Plan for the Gay Man, which will air on Feb. 17. The Comedy Central takeoff features a Flab Four tutoring gays on the finer points of heterosexuality: ugly clothes, a bare kitchen and a healthy dose of false egotism to cover for all personal failings.

More of MarkyG! Issues Over the Rainbow, South Florida’s premier all-gay radio show, is expanding to one hour and moving to 8 a.m. on Sundays. The show featuring the “Voice of the South Florida Gay Community,” MarkyG, has been running successfully for the past year and a half at 6:30 a.m. every Sunday morning. A new weekly segment for women called “Chick Chat” will be host by “MTV Battle of the Sexes” Rachel Robinson and local personality Denise Gunther. And all the popular Issues Over the Rainbow personalities are staying on board. Returning segments of the show include “Question Mark?” With licensed psychotherapist Mark Rutherford, “The Rainbow World Update” with correspondent Greg Ullman, “Tomorrow’s Pride” with new correspondent Joshua Johnson and “The Red Carpet Report” with our very own Express entertainment diva Mary Damiano. The last show before the time change features last weeks Q cover girl Cyndi Lauper at 7:20 a.m. Nov. 16. When the new one-hour version premiers on Nov. 23 at 8 a.m., red- hot comedian Margaret Cho will be the special guest.

Q6 www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003 www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003 Q7 Q_THEATERreview

Tale of the Allergist’s Wife: MARY WILSON from Q3 many primetime shows to express her “We worked really hard in our lifetime, Nothing to Sneeze At disappointment at the time, but is and the Supremes were really special,” somewhat evasive when asked about Ross Wilson says. “When people are trying to Charles Busch Play Is Funny and Thought-Provoking now. Asked if the two ladies speak to each tear that down to become a part of it, it is other, Wilson answers softly, “Not yet. frustrating for me because I have spent By Mary Damiano and changes their lives forever. No.” money legally and my time trying to stop Arts & Entertainment Editor As Marjorie, Lauren Klein Asked if they will ever work together people from doing that.” The heartbreak of gives a bravura performance as a again, she replies, “I’m leaving the door unfulfilled dreams is at the woman teetering on the edge of open, but it takes two, so we’ll see when “I won’t have time for heart of Charles Busch’s her nerves, and often going off she’s ready.” comedy The Tale of the the deep end. Wilson says she really does not give my full show, so it is a Allergist’s Wife, which is Shirl Bernheim reprises her the matter much thought anymore. She is scaled down version,” currently making its Florida Broadway role as Marjorie’s busy recording a new album of original premiere at the Coconut mother from hell, a negative material, which she hopes to have out in Wilson says. “But it will Grove Playhouse. woman obsessed with bowel mid-2004. Wilson currently resides in Las be very special. I’ll be Marjorie Taub has all the movements. Bernheim is a hoot, a Vegas and has been recording the album in bringing two back-up trappings of happiness—a pint-sized pistol who packs a Los Angeles and her hometown of Detroit. loving doctor husband, a $900,000 co-op in verbal wallop. Robert Ari is Marjorie’s teddy “Detroit is very special,” Wilson says singers with me for the Manhattan with a spectacular view, bear of a husband, who walks a fine line of the town where all the music magic set. People can expect successful grown children and plenty of between ego and self-deprecation. The best began. “Unfortunately it is not as lucrative money to do with what she likes. But Marjorie scenes are in the second act when Ira and as it used to be. But the artists and writers to hear their favorite fancies herself an intellectual, and feels her Marjorie team up to keep from losing are still there. It has been a really great Supremes numbers.” cerebral talents have been wasted. To say themselves in Lee. opportunity to work there.” — Mary Wilson that she’s having a mid-life crisis would be Even though Lee is played by talented Wilson is also proud of her role as a an understatement. At loose ends after her actress Meg Foster, Lee is the drag character cultural ambassador for the United States, Wilson, the one Supreme to stick with therapist dies, Marjorie goes on a breaking of the piece, the role one could see Charles an honor she shares with other showbiz the group from the beginning to the end, binge at a Disney Store and ends up Busch playing if he wanted to go that route. luminaries such as opera singer Denyce has many fond memories, including hospitalized. When the play begins, she’s in Foster nails Lee’s larger-than-life persona, Graves, violinist Yo-Yo Ma and sitcom star command performances for Queen a deep funk, unable to get dressed or leave and is delightful as she works her magic to Doris Roberts. She has toured Argentina, Elizabeth II and sharing the stage with the the house. revitalize Marjorie’s life. Uruguay and Brazil as part of the Culture Beatles, Sonny and Cher, the Andrews Enter Lee, a childhood friend Marjorie The play is very funny, but also offers a Connect Program with the U.S. State Sisters and Lena Horne. Other memories hasn’t seen in decades. Lee has lived the lot of food for thought about happiness and Department. include legendary Ed Sullivan Show kind of life Marjorie wants, hobnobbing with exploring life to its fullest. Keeping the legend of the Supremes appearances with the fabulous gowns, the rich and famous, becoming the catalyst intact has been a chore for Wilson. Many wigs and makeup, all part of the Supreme’s The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife runs for important events and decisions—she’s a phony imposters and replacements have glamour and mystique. female Forrest Gump, but with a higher IQ. through Nov. 30 at the Coconut Grove Playhouse, 1200 Main Highway, Coconut tried to claim the Supremes’ legend as their Wilson will bring that mystique to Lee sweeps in and motivates Marjorie to own. South Florida for one very special night. reclaim her life, but later pulls Marjorie’s Grove. For tickets and showtimes, call 305.442.4000. husband and mother into her fantasy world

Q8 www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003 Q_Q_THEATERPERSONALITYpreviewprofile The Boys in the Boatlift Play Explores the Plight of Gay Men Kicked out of Cuba By Mary Damiano Arts & Entertainment Editor The Mariel Boatlift was a sad chapter in Cuban history and a turning point in Miami’s history. But according to playwright and actor Bill Yule, it was also a blank page in gay history, a page he fills in with his play, The Boys of Mariel. The play deals with six gay men who were thrown out of their homeland because their homosexuality made them undesirable citizens. Cuba sent boatloads of such undesirables, including hardcore criminals, to Miami in 1980. Even those Marielitos who were not criminals were treated as such by the United States, and were confined to the Krome Detention Center in Miami. Yule and his partner of 40 years, Barry Ball, were living in Miami in 1980. “We were constantly aware, because of the bombardment in the press, of the Mariel boatlifts, and the terrible injustice in it,” Yule says. “When it’s in the paper every day, if you’re a playwright, you begin to think that it might make a good play. We hooked onto that as the skeleton and then invented the characters to tell the stories from as few perspectives as we could get away with, which in this case was six.” While the plights of other Marielitos have been examined in the arts, Yule says that the gay men deported from Cuba have been overlooked. Yule and Ball did not want these stories to continue to be ignored. “To be a homosexual in Cuba at that time was definitely an enormous problem, especially if they contravened other political issues,” says Yule, who also directs the play. “Fidel wanted to start his slate with absolute purity, something like what Adolf Hitler did.” Yule and Ball wrote and produced The Boys of Mariel in Los Angeles in 1999, where it ran for seven weeks. The production was nominated for a GLADD Media Award. Yule believes this is the right moment for The Boys of Mariel to be presented in Miami. “In 1999, I suspect there would have been vocal protest of considerable strength,” Yule says. “We didn’t feel it was the right time then. We feel it is now.” But it’s not all serious stuff with The Boys of Mariel, which Yule describes as a black comedy. Yule says there is also a good bit of nudity in the play. “Not full-frontal, full-rectal, if you will,” he says. “There are bare butts all across the stage.” The Boys of Mariel boasts an impressive cast including John Felix, who just won a Carbonell Award for Best Actor for his performance in Fortune’s Fool; Andres Alexis, who has appeared in numerous local productions, including Nature of the Beach and The Food Chain; Ricky J. Martinez, of The Mystery of Edwin Drood and Blood Brothers; and Michael Burch, seen most recently in Vampire Lesbians of Sodom at the Sol Theatre. In addition to performing in the play, Alexis is also wearing several behind-the- scenes hats, including that of production manager. The Puerto Rican native says that The Boys of Mariel has put him more in touch with his Latin heritage. “It’s a re-evaluation of who I am through the lives of these people,” he says. “I wasn’t kicked out, but in a way, I had to leave my country and my family and everything that is dear to me in order to ‘pursue greater things’ for myself.” Alexis also has several nude scenes. “He’s a real a tramp in this,” Yule says. Michael Burch is the only non-Hispanic member of the cast. The Austrian-Asian actor plays a bodybuilder type in the play and has embraced the opportunity to relate so personally to a different heritage. “I’ve never done anything with a dialect, ever,” he says. “I’m a gringo.” Burch believes that audiences will appreciate the theatricality of The Boys of Mariel as well the illumination of a forgotten topic. “It’s a well-written play, and there’s so much going on onstage,” he says. “It’s something different.” Even though the Mariel boatlift took place more than 20 years ago, Yule believes that The Boys of Mariel is a timeless piece. “The world is full of governments who uproot people they don’t like and throw them out and make them go to other countries and make them try to start living a new life. Of course, they don’t all succeed,” Yule says. Ricky J. Martinez, “We think everyone should be more aware that this is not just an isolated thing.” Kevin Varel and Michael Burch in The Boys of Mariel runs through Nov. 30 at Teatro Avante, 235 Alcazar Ave., Coral ‘The Boys of Mariel’ Gables. Showtimes are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m. There is no performance on Thanksgiving, Nov. 27. Tickets are $30. To purchase tickets, call 305.609.4763. For more information, visit www.TheBoysofMariel.com. photo by David Vance

www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003 Q9 Q_CULTURALevents Tuesdays and Saturdays Through Dec. 6: Live Theatre and Dance Outlawz Hair Raising Event - The Outlawz will have Advance Ticket Sales - The Sisterhood of a collection site for the Sunshine Athletic Congregation Etz Chaim is selling tickets to its Association’s Holiday Basket Project available 2003-2004 Broadway Season. Kiss Me Kate (Jan. during the Outlawz country dance sessions at Sea 8); Thoroughly Modern Millie (Jan. 15); West Side Monster. Doors open at 5pm, Line Dance lesson at Story (Feb. 8); Miami City Ballet Program IV (March 6pm. www.theoutlawz.biz. 20); The Full Monty (April 1); Mamma Mia (April November: French Language Classes and 15); and The Producers (May 13 and 16). For Cultural Activities - For schedules in Fort tickets and information call Joyce Edelson at Lauderdale and Boca Raton, tuition and program of 954.718.5800. cultural activities, please call Allaince Francaise de Saturday, Nov. 22: Radio City Christmas Fort Lauderdale at 954.523.9052 or go to 705 S.E. Spectacular featuring the Rockettes - Direct from Second Ct., Fort Lauderdale, Monday - Friday, 1 - New York, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular 6pm. stars the world-famous Rockettes. The show features November: New Tap & Musical Dance such family favorites as the legendary “Parade of Classes - ArtServe is offering adult dance lessons the Wooden Soldiers” and the awe-inspiring “Living with the famous international dance teacher, Mr. Nativity.” Broward Center, 201 S.W. Fifth Ave. René Godin. Beginning Tap, 6pm on Wednesdays; 954.462.0222. Musical Comedy Production Number, 7pm on Wednesdays; Beginners Ballroom, 8pm on Wednesdays; Advanced Tap, 6pm on Fridays; Music Intermediate Tap, 7pm on Fridays. $12/class, $22/ Tuesday, Nov. 18: King Diamond - 7:30pm 2 classes. ArtServe is located 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd., at Culture Room, 3045 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Fort Lauderdale. These are ongoing lessons, for more Lauderdale, 954.564.1074. information call 954.922.7346. Tuesday, Nov. 18: US Navy Commodores Thursday, Nov. 20: Sister Speak Open Mic Jazz Ensemble - 8pm at Jackie Gleason Theatre, - All women are invited to share their own poetry, 1700 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. lyrics, music, and performance art. $5 for supporters 305.673.7300. and $3 for performers. All money collected goes to Thursday, Nov. 20: Olivia Newton-John – women’s organizations. Pride Factory. 8pm at Dreyfoos Hall. For information and tickets www.sisterspeak.org, 954.772.0324. call 561.832.7469 or 1.800.572.8471. Thursday, Nov. 20: Oakland Park and Friday, Nov. 21: Atmosphere - 6pm at The Wilton Manors Chamber of Commerce Venu and Star Bar Patio, 100 S.W. Third Ave., Fort Luncheon - Keith O’Brien, Executive Director of Lauderdale. 954.727.0950. FuturePoint presents Creating Tomorrow’s Leaders Friday, Nov. 21: Styx - 8pm at Mizner Park Today. Noon at Tequila Sunrise Mexican Cafe, 4711 Amphitheater, East side of Federal Highway between N. Dixie Hwy., Oakland Park. $15. 954.568.7755. Glades Road and Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton. Saturday Nov. 22: Breaking Balls for 561.962.4109. Women’s Health: A Pool-A-Thon - Save the date Saturday, Nov. 22: .50 and G-Unit, Lloyd for this fundraiser for women’s medical screenings. Banks & Young Buck - 8pm at Ovation, Boynton Noon-2pm or 2:30-4:30pm at Kicks Sports Bar, Beach. 561.740.7076. 2008 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors. For information and registration call 954.474.1978. Exhibitions Saturday, Nov. 22: Expanding Horizons - Through Sunday, Nov. 23: Saint Peter and Save the date for the 7th Annual Recognition Dinner the Vatican: The Legacy of the Popes – The largest benefiting the Gay and Lesbian Foundation of South Vatican collection to tour North America. Seven Florida. Honoring Dr. John Graves, Marleine Bastien, days a week 9am – 6pm, Tuesdays until 9pm at the Damian Pardo and Bacardi. National Impact Award Museum of Art, 1 Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. to playwright Terrence McNally. Ms. Diana Ross www.MuseumOfArt.org, 877.787.7711. to introduce The Supremes. 6:30pm at the Westin Through Friday, Nov. 28: Melanin and Its Diplomat Resort & Spa, 3555 S. Ocean Dr., Impact on People - An art exhibit featuring a variety Hollywood. $185 per person includes cocktail of women painted in a dark, luscious, terra-cotta reception and dinner. For tickets and information, pigment, the trademark of Haitian-born artist Asser please call 305.572.1841 or visit www.glfsf.org. Saint-Val. The artist describes the color, meant as a Saturday, Nov. 22: Cattleman’s Ball - metaphor for unity, beauty, and strength, as Experience the unique entertainment and “Combujo,” a Spanish word for a skin tone that camaraderie of gay country dancing while giving cannot be categorized into any race, but represents back to your local gay community at this Tuesday’s a mixture of races. Gallery six at the Broward County Angels benefit. Special performances by the Julie Main Library, 100 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale. Christies and the Rough Riders of South Florida. 954.357.7464. Admission is $5. Doors open at 7pm with slow lessons followed by open dancing, entertainment, and 50/50 raffle throughout the night. 7pm - 12am Radio at Manhattan South, 6890 N. Powerline Rd., Fort The Norm Kent Show - Live from the Floridian Lauderdale. Restaurant on E. Las Olas Blvd., interviews and November 26 - December 1: The 19th commentary with Norm Kent. Weekday mornings, Annual White Party 2003 - Locations are Miami, 8 – 9am on WFTL 1400 AM. The Call-In Line is Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale. Featuring Tracy 1.866.432.1400. www.NormKentShow.com Young, Manny Lehman, Abel, Hex Hector, DJ Pride, Bridging the Gap – Call-in talk radio show Alyson Calagna, Susan Morabito, Victor Calderone, dedicated to creating a better understanding between Ivano Bellini, JRNY, Monty Q, and more.... the straight and gay communities, with host Rene Benefits Care Resource, Florida’s one source for Bray. Sundays from 6 – 8pm on WTAN 1340 AM. HIV/AIDS Care. Tickets on sale now! Visit Live, worldwide broadcast at www.whiteparty.net. www.TampaBayGay.com/BTG. 1.800.263.8559. Wednesday Dec. 17: Cocktails for Issues Over the Rainbow - MarkyG hosts this Compass - Save the date for the first annual gay and lesbian early morning talk show. Sunday Cocktails for Compass featuring a silent auction. mornings at 7:25am on PARTY 93.1 FM. Proceeds benefit Compass’ HIV services program www.Party931.com. and Youth Services Program. Tickets are $100. 6 - Michael Martini Hour – “Let’s stir the pot … 8pm at Club Colette in Palm Beach. For more and get to the bottom of the issues!” Gay talk radio, information contact Scott Fox at Compass at Thursdays, 6 – 7pm on WPBR 1340 AM or on the 561.533.9699. internet at www.talk1340.com.

Q10 www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003 Maximum_Volume Pumping It Up with New Album Releases Reviews Mary Damiano

Sarah McLachlan: ‘Afterglow’ (Arista) It has been six years since Sarah McLachlan’s last studio album, and the pop landscape has changed drastically. Gone are many of the stars of Lillith Fair, rockers such as Paula Cole and Shawn Colvin who gained fame in the waning days of the grunge era, replaced by pop tarts like Britney Spears, Christina Aguilara and Pink. McLachlan was certainly the most prominent female recording artist of this era to emerge, and a huge fan base has eagerly awaited her return. Afterglow is a fitting title for her new work, which is lush and rich. The warmth of production, purity of McLachlan’s voice and gorgeous harmonies combine to make the album a worthy musical voyage. McLachlan has the gift to sing about loss and failure without sounding droning or depressing. The first single, “Fallen,” is a great representation of this quality. “Train Wreck” flows so well it can be listened to again and again, with brilliant lyrics like “your eyes are like midnight fireflies” and “a wildfire born of frustration.” McLachlan’s lyrics flow well, and she recognizes the importance of strong melodies, which many recording artist of today neglect altogether. McLachlan went through many changes between Afterglow and her last album. She lost a mother and became a mother. As a result, this album is reflective of those experiences. But one thing hasn’t changed, and that is McLachlan’s exquisite talent. Welcome back, Sarah. —Andy Zeffer Reba McEntire: ‘Room to Breathe’ (MCA Nashville) After making her mark in television with Reba on the WB network and on Broadway in Annie Get Your Gun, country music superstar Reba McEntire is back in the music biz with Room to Breathe. McEntire is a traditionalist, no country pop for her. And it shows with the first single, “I’m Gonna Take That Mountain,” which features banjo, fiddle and Dobro, as well as McEntire’s powerful twang. McEntire is reveling in the patriotism in our current political climate, and makes no qualms about it. In her bio, she is quoted as saying, “I’m so glad that patriotism and spiritualism are coming back to country music. It’s more rooted and grounded in the values of home and family. We need that.” Gay listeners can only guess if they are included in McEntire’s ideal of family values. Still, regardless of her politics (McEntire is a huge George W. Bush supporter, and backed his father as well), the queen of country still has a country bravado few can compete with. She demonstrates her pep splendidly on “Love Revival” and “Sky Full of Angels.” Fellow country conservative duets with the redheaded firecracker on “It Just Has to Be That Way.” When it comes to pure country, there is no one purer than Reba McEntire. —Andy Zeffer Deborah Gibson: ‘Colored Lights’ (Fynsworth Alley) When it comes to teenage pop princesses, Debbie Gibson was always one of the smart ones. She wrote, produced and sang her own hits with fresh-faced exuberance, and still holds the record as the youngest person to score that triple play with a number one hit. She was also smart enough to leave the pop world behind as she matured, re-dub herself Deborah and carve out another career for herself on Broadway. Colored Lights is the Electric Youth singer’s tribute to the Great White Way. Her voice is just as sweet, just as impressive, and she still sounds like she’s having the time of her life on each song. But there’s a maturity now in her phrasing that makes this album strong and satisfying. Gibson has always been a belter, and with her Broadway songs she finally has an arena where the material matches her style. The CD begins appropriately enough with “Let Me Entertain You” from Gypsy, a smoky teasing, song that reminds everyone that Ms. Gibson is all grown up. Included on the CD are several songs from shows Gibson has appeared in: “I’m the Greatest Star” and “Who Are You Now?” from Funny Girl, “Maybe This Time” from , and “On My Own” from Les Miserables, the show that began Gibson’s grown-up career. The Latin-flavored party song “Raise the Roof!” from The Wild Party is a real treat, and “They All Laughed” from Shall We Dance? adds a fun retro feel. “I’d Rather Leave While I’m in Love” from the current show The Boy From Oz is a wonderful choice, a terrific love song about the merits of leaving a relationship while things are still good. Colored Lights is a terrific CD for anyone who loves Broadway. Deborah Gibson has found her niche and deserves a standing ovation. —Mary Damiano

www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003 Q11 Q12 www.ExpressGayNews.com • November 17, 2003